Bumetanide (Generic Name)Other Names: Bumex®

Dosage form

Oral tablets: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg

About this drug

Bumetanide (byu-MET-ah-nide) is a “water pill” (loop diuretic). It works by making you pass more urine. This helps prevent and treat too much fluid in the body. This medicine also helps lower blood pressure. In medical terms, it is known as an anti-hypertensive (AN-teehy-per-TEN-siv).

Side effects

Common side effects are:

Decreased potassium level in the body

Increased sensitivity to sunlight

Dizziness or lightheadedness

Urination at night (nocturia)

Rare side effects include:

Fever, chills

Lower back pain

Ringing in the ears

Nausea

Dry mouth

Extreme thirst

Increased heart rate

Tiredness

Muscle cramps

Weakness

If any of these side effects become severe or bother you, call your doctor. Do not take over-the-counter medicine for your symptoms.

Drug interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over-the-counter medicines or herbal products that you are taking. He or she can check for drug interactions.

If you miss a dose

If you miss a medicine dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at its scheduled time, and continue your usual dosing schedule. Do not “double up” on doses to catch up.

Potassium

Your doctor may have you take a potassium supplement while taking this drug.

How to take this medicine

This medicine can cause you to pass more urine. If your prescription says to take it once daily, take it in the morning. If you are to take more than 1 dose, take the last dose before 6 p.m. This will keep you from having to wake up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.

For help in finding a doctor or health service that suits your needs, call the UPMC Referral Service at 412-647-UPMC (8762) or 1-800-533-UPMC (8762). Select option 1.

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